Andy Burnham's Parliamentary Ambitions Thwarted by Labour Rules and Starmer's Opposition
Allies of Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, continue to explore avenues for his return to Parliament, aiming to position him as a challenger to Labour leader Keir Starmer. However, these efforts appear increasingly implausible as they clash with party regulations and the leadership's firm stance.
The 'Nuclear Option' and Its Flaws
The latest proposal, dubbed the 'nuclear option' by Burnham's supporters in the New Statesman, suggests he resign as mayor before a parliamentary selection process in Greater Manchester, thereby circumventing Labour's rule that elected mayors require National Executive Committee (NEC) permission to stand in by-elections. This plan has been widely criticised as impractical, reminiscent of Baldrick's 'cunning plans' from Blackadder, where a moment's reflection reveals its futility.
In February, Burnham's attempt to become Labour's candidate in the Gorton and Denton by-election was rejected by the NEC, with an eight-to-one vote against him, including Starmer's opposition. The rule book explicitly mandates mayors to seek NEC approval, and even if Burnham resigned, the NEC retains broad authority to intervene in candidate selections if it deems it in the party's interest. Blocking him under a different rule might be more embarrassing, but the previous vote demonstrated Starmer's resolve.
Consequences of the 'Nuclear Option'
If Burnham were to pursue this strategy, he would relinquish the moral high ground by abandoning his mayoral duties, triggering a by-election that Reform could potentially win. This risk was a key factor in the NEC's initial refusal, and members would likely view a resignation as an attempt to force their hand, further solidifying opposition. Ultimately, Burnham is unlikely to become an MP before his mayoral term ends in May 2028, as the NEC would probably vote similarly to stop him.
Burnham's Outreach and Rebranding Efforts
Burnham's allies claim he is now engaging in 'outreach' to NEC members, having previously been promised by a senior Labour figure that his candidacy would not be blocked—a promise that proved naive. This outreach includes rebranding the 'soft left' as the 'democratic left,' a move that risks alienating others by implying they are undemocratic and highlights Burnham's controversial ideas, such as proportional representation and abolishing party whips.
Despite favourable opinion polls reflecting his record in Manchester, these ratings are partly due to his unavailability as an alternative prime minister. If he became a viable candidate, his support could plummet as scrutiny of his policies intensifies. For now, Burnham serves as a symbol of Labour's leadership dilemma: while some seek to replace Starmer, no realistic alternative offers a better prospect.
